 |
|||
|
May 4, 2007 |
|||
| Serving up change | |||
|
If those rows of stand-alone slot
machines depicted in old movies like “Diamonds Are Forever” and the
original “Ocean’s 11” don’t already look archaic, they will soon
seem like something out of the dark ages. Server-based gaming
technology is rapidly progressing, and ultimately will change the
slot machine experience by providing players with more choices,
while providing casinos with opportunities to boost profitability.
What server-based gaming systems are being designed to do is network slot machines to a central computer, from which casinos can exert greater control over the content and services provided on the slot floor. Or in the words of Andy Ingram, senior vice president of network systems at Reno-based IGT Systems, “We’re bringing the power of the Internet to the gaming floor.” For players, this will mean not only a greater selection of available games, but also less chance of being shut out of playing a favorite game whenever they want. For casinos, these systems will enable alteration of game content and pricing to match changing conditions on the floor by the day or even the hour. While such systems are not yet approved by any U.S. gaming regulatory agencies, Nevada has drafted regulations under which individual systems can achieve approval. New Jersey has drafted but not yet adopted its own regulations, and Gaming Laboratories International also has issued its GLI-21 regulations that other jurisdictions might use. System suppliers are working closely with regulators to assure that their systems meet all requirements, especially in the area of security. They also are working with each other to get server-based gaming to the market sooner, as in the deal announced last November between Bally Technologies and Aristocrat Technologies to co-develop and manufacture a joint system. Other firms offering whole systems or components of systems include IGT, Cyberview Technology, WMS Gaming and Transact Technologies. Server-based gaming systems are currently being field tested by manufacturers at assorted locations, primarily Native American casinos throughout the country. WMS and Aristocrat predict a rollout for server-based gaming within a year, though others more conservatively suggest early-2009. —James Hodl |
|||